12 Years A Slave - A Hard Film

I recently went to see 12 Years A Slave on the insistence of Evan, and I'm still conflicted as to whether I'm glad or not that I did. The film is based on the autobiographical book written by Solomon Northup, telling his tale of being kidnapped in Washington D.C. where he traveled from his home in New York, and being sold into slavery. The movie had a few scenes I found unnerving, and I know I wasn't the only one. It's difficult to watch them portray the reality of slavery, let alone the brutally cruel punishments. There was a woman in the theater who sat a couple seats away who had to leave during a scene where a small slave girl was being whipped and wait until it was over. It wasn't a nice film, and it isn't something to watch when your bored. This film will incite internal conflict and make you feel for the character, there's no dodging it. 

But the shots, the sound design, the casting- it all worked and flowed so well together. The film was beautifully crafted, and I think I would say that it was an movie that I'm glad I viewed, but I don't know if I want to relive it just yet. I can easily see this movie winning academy awards this year. I'd recommend it, but just be prepared for what you're going to see. I didn't fully grasp it when I did.